IVF: The Story Behind the Science (And 5 Surprising Things You Might Not Know)

Today marks 47 years since the birth of Louise Brown, the world’s first IVF baby. Born on July 25th, 1978 in Oldham, England, Louise’s arrival changed the fertility world forever.

Since then, over 8 million babies have been born through IVF, with thousands more joining that list every single day.

But IVF is more than a medical marvel. It’s a personal, emotional, and deeply human journey. One that so many of you reading this have walked (or are walking right now) or may be considering for the future. And so today, we celebrate you, too.

IVF: A Few Things You Might Not Know…

The average IVF cycle takes 6 – 8 weeks, before the two-week wait even begins.
Despite public perception, IVF isn’t quick. The physical and emotional demands often stretch over months, not days. It’s important to find some time off to look after yourself over this time.

Embryos have been successfully frozen for over 30 years.
The first baby born from a frozen embryo arrived in 1984. Today, frozen embryo transfers sometimes have higher success rates than fresh ones. However it’s a very individual decision and will depend on your circumstances.

One Child in Every UK Classroom Was Conceived via IVF
As of 2023, approximately 1 in 32 babies born in the UK resulted from fertility treatment—meaning almost every classroom now has a child conceived through IVF!

Babies Born Through “Three‑Parent IVF” Are Here
In the UK this summer, eight healthy babies were born using mitochondrial donation  – a technique combining DNA from three people to prevent inherited mitochondrial diseases. The parents’ nuclear DNA is preserved, while a donor egg provides healthy mitochondria.

Natural‑Cycle IVF Exists
This method avoids hormone stimulation, retrieving a single egg per cycle. This benefits some people who prefer lower medical intervention. Success rates are lower per cycle, but there’s no risk of ovarian hyperstimulation and fewer side effects
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If you’re curious about how holistic support (like reflexology, mindset coaching, nutritional prep) can complement the IVF process, let’s talk. I’d love to support you whether you are considering IVF or trying naturally. We offer reflexology and acupuncture in Wokingham, Berkshire in the UK, as well as online fertility coaching.

Send us a message today for a free call back to discuss how we might be able to help you.